A randomized-controlled trial of high- or low-volume intravenous Plasma-Lyte(®) to prevent hypotension during...

The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of hypotension during sedation in adults presenting for elective colonoscopy and randomized to intravenous Plasma-Lyte 148(®) at either 2 mL·kg(-1) (low volume) or 20 mL·kg(-1) (high volume).

Patients aged ≥ 18 yr presenting for elective colonoscopy, with or without gastroscopy, after oral bowel preparation were randomized to receive the intervention immediately before the start of the procedure. Hypotension was defined as a ≥ 25% decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) from baseline during the procedure. Secondary outcomes included SBP < 90 mmHg, lowest SBP during sedation, duration of hypotension, use of vasopressors, postoperative outcomes, and cost.

Seventy-five patients were randomly allocated to either the low-volume or high-volume group, respectively (total n = 150). The incidence of hypotension was similar in the two groups (59% vs 56%, respectively; odds ratio, 0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.47 to 1.71; P = 0.74). The incidence of SBP < 90 mmHg, the lowest SBP during sedation, the duration of hypotension, the use of vasopressors, and postoperative outcomes were also similar in the two groups.

This study does not support the routine use of 20 mL·kg(-1) of intravenous Plasma-Lyte 148 to prevent hypotension and other complications during sedation for elective colonoscopy in adult patients. Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR 12615001288516).